Summary (tl;dr)

Former plastic surgeon Dr. Tomasz Kosowski is currently on trial, representing himself, for the first-degree murder of attorney Steven Cozzi, whose body has never been found. The prosecution has rested its case, with closing arguments expected to begin today.

Essential Background

Attorney Steven Cozzi disappeared on March 21, 2023, from his law office in Largo, Florida. Investigations revealed a significant amount of blood and signs of a violent attack in the law firm's bathroom. Dr. Tomasz Kosowski was subsequently arrested and charged with Cozzi's murder. Prosecutors allege that a contentious civil lawsuit, in which Cozzi represented parties Kosowski was suing, provided a motive for the killing.

The Full Story

Dr. Tomasz Kosowski's murder trial is ongoing in a Pinellas County courtroom, where he has chosen to represent himself and waived his right to a jury, meaning the judge will determine his guilt. The state officially rested its case on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, after six days of testimony. Kosowski did not call any witnesses and opted not to testify. During his cross-examinations, Kosowski challenged the prosecution's theory, including the physical possibility of moving Cozzi's 190-pound body in a cart, even requesting a courtroom demonstration which was denied. Prosecutors have presented forensic and digital evidence, including Kosowski's DNA in the law office bathroom and Cozzi's DNA in Kosowski's vehicle, along with surveillance video tracking Kosowski's movements. The state is seeking the death penalty. Closing arguments are anticipated to begin Wednesday morning, September 23, 2026.

Why It Matters

This high-profile murder trial has garnered significant attention due to the "no body" nature of the case, the defendant's background as an Ivy League-educated plastic surgeon, and his unusual decision to represent himself. The prosecution's pursuit of the death penalty adds further gravity to the proceedings. The trial's progression, particularly the upcoming closing arguments and the judge's impending verdict, is closely watched as it exemplifies a complex legal battle without the victim's remains.

Geographic Location

• Blanchard Law Firm, Largo, Pinellas County, Florida, United States (location of Steven Cozzi's disappearance and suspected murder)
• Pinellas County Courthouse, Pinellas County, Florida, United States (location of the murder trial proceedings)
• Collier County, Florida, United States (suspected location of body disposal in a landfill)